Beach and island holidays
Paradise found: The world’s seven most beautiful islands named
They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but surely not when it comes to islands. Here are some of the best.
An expert expat’s tips for Palau
With supreme diving, a national karaoke obsession and restaurants that will cook your daily catch for a “corkage” fee, it’s easy to fall for this tiny island nation.
- by Belinda Jackson
Australia’s 10 most spectacular national park stays
Staying overnight in a national park isn’t necessarily a case of roughing it in a basic campsite. Some Aussie national parks offer something a little more spectacular to spend the night in.
- by David Whitley
Opinion
Indonesia
Investigative reporter comes off second-best in reef encounter
I stand on the speed boat, blood seeping from my back, as a searing pain shoots through my lower right rib cage.
- by Nicholas McKenzie
Six of the best places to stay on the Sunshine Coast
It’s Queensland’s sunniest playground and these hinterland getaways are ideal for exploring its terrific food, stunning beaches and rolling hinterland.
- by Sheriden Rhodes
Sick of resorts? There’s an alternative (and cheaper) way to stay in Fiji
We make new friends, eat home-cooked meals and life slows down. But this kind of holiday isn’t for everyone.
- by Shaney Hudson
★★★★½
Hotel reviews
Surprising Aussie connection for this luxurious Mexican resort
Luxury hotel brand Belmond’s Riviera Maya property has been one of the top resorts in the region since the ’90s. After a major upgrade, it’s now even better.
- by Ute Junker
Australia is home to the world’s most beautiful puddle
Think blue-tinged water clear as a gin cocktail, pure white sand, and one of the world’s most unusual landscapes. This is a puddle for the Instagram age.
- by Brian Johnston
There are few overseas destinations that can match this paradise
When the pandemic kept Australia’s luxury travellers within our borders for almost two years, it was here they flocked.
- by Craig Tansley
Major overhaul of Fiji’s first five-star resort nears completion
Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort is polishing its stars with a revamp as the island nation enjoys a boom in visitors.
- by Julietta Jameson